Becoming a travel nurse is the vision for many nurses who have a bounce in their step and adventure in their DNA. It’s a quick route to buff up your salary and accumulate diverse experience while truly enjoying your stay and day-to-day life. However, there are a couple of common misconceptions and missteps that many new travelers tend to make as they embark on this new and thrilling stage in life.

#1 Can a new grad nurse be a travel nurse?

Misconceptions: Many people think that you can head straight into travel nursing as soon as you start your career, as soon as you feel ready.

Reality: Hospitals hire travel nurses because they can quickly adapt to the facility’s culture. It is not practical for them to provide training for assignments that typically last only 13 weeks on average. Thus, they typically require candidates to have at least 2 years of relevant hospital experience to qualify as a travel nurse.

#2 Which skills are required to be a travel nurse?

Misconception: You need to have a specific personality to be a travel nurse. Many nurses think, “It’s just not my type.”

Reality: While many adventurous nurses go for travel nursing, not everyone who becomes a travel nurse does so out of a desire to explore the country. There are many types of travel nurses. For numerous nurses, it’s simply an opportunity that fits well with their lifestyle. For example, a nurse from New York might want to visit family in California during the summer, so she takes a travel assignment there.

#3 Where can I find the top paying travel nurse agencies?

Misconception: You search Google for ‘top paying travel nurse agencies’ and apply for the top results that come up.

Reality: Hospitals and agencies can optimize their content or sponsor ads to appear higher in search engine results. White Glove placement is the leading travel nurse agency that has all the opportunities with the highest pay and fabulous benefits.

#4 Where to stay on travel nursing assignments?

Misconceptions: You are best off going with a job that provides housing.

Reality: When you get paid with a stipend, it often covers more, and you may be left with change when budgeting wisely. Check out the complete housing guide to learn how travel nurse housing works.

#5 Is a travel nurse resume different than a regular nursing resume?

Misconception: A travel nurse resume is the same as a local one. Isn’t it just nursing?

Reality: When you apply for travel nurse jobs, facilities will want to know more than just your experience. They will look for qualities such as being a team player, adaptability, and being easy to work with. While meeting the skill requirements is important, soft skills may also play a notable role in the hiring decision.

#6 What makes a good beginner travel nursing job?

Misconception: You must look for the highest-paying jobs and apply there.

Reality: When you are just getting your feet wet with travel nursing, it’s wiser to go to a place where you’ll love your stay. The destination of travel nursing jobs for beginners is as impactful as the job itself. Don’t focus on money. Think of a place you’ve dreamed of going to. That being said, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t think about money, but place your enjoyment first on the list. If you start with a destination in a hick town where it’s hard to acclimate and there are few places to see, you might not enjoy it and lose your thrill for a travel career before you even start. Instead, start with a popular destination where you’re sure to have a good time.

Best travel nursing destinations for beginners

Among the favorite destinations in the USA, these large states present excellent opportunities for a fabulous landing in travel nursing. The steady demand for nurses and the presence of prestigious facilities make it as attractive for advancing your career as it is to enhance your downtime experiences. There are countless places to explore, ensuring that there will never be a dull moment. Additionally, logistics like housing, transportation, and dining are much simpler, with a plentiful supply.

Travel nursing NYC

Think about five dining spots on every street, beautiful free city parks, best hits on Broadway, and cultural diversity where you can find every type of face in its unique neighborhoods. Before travel nursing NYC, here’s a little secret about the big red apple: New Yorkers don’t give a hoot to strangers, so don’t be shocked to see yourself blending straight in enjoying the vibrant, unique culture found only in New York. And don’t forget that subway fare is just $2.90!

Travel nursing jobs in Florida

Ah Florida! Just the word evokes a sunny feeling in the brain! Florida travel nurse jobs offer more than work. A warm climate and beautiful beaches make it an attractive location for those who love outdoor activities.

Travel nurse jobs California

Travel nurse assignments in California are where you’ll find four seasons all in one place. California boasts a diverse range of landscapes, from beaches and mountains to deserts and forests. The stunning landscapes and diverse recreational options make it an appealing place to live and work. You’ll also be super close to the entertainment capital of the world!

Looking to make the jump to travel nursing?

Check out the job board for the best travel nursing positions! If you have questions before taking this big step, or if you’re still deliberating if it’s the ideal path for you, feel free to contact our career experts for a free consultation!